“Myself, my husband, and our two little boys lived in Chicago for years before deciding to take the leap and move to the ‘burbs,” writes interior stylist Shawna Smith. “We chose Downers Grove for its small-town appeal and outstanding schools. While smaller than what we initially set out to find, we were charmed by the ‘little white house with the open floor plan.’ This is our very first home purchase and I could not wait to customize it and make it our own!”

“So far, I’ve really enjoyed decorating my boys’ bedrooms to reflect their unique styles. Sully is our very busy four-year-old and loves shapes, colors and planets so his room is full of little curiosities and wall decor to keep him preoccupied. Jacky is eight years old, super cool, and very particular. He loves the color red and begged us to paint his walls in his favorite color. For me, this was a definite no! To compromise, I purchased a small red side table, a red lamp, and a red radio (not pictured). He loved it!”

Our Style: Bold, curated, inviting with a sense of humor.

Inspiration: Orla Kiely, Merchant & Mills, The Jealous Curator, Schoolhouse Electric, Present and Correct.

Favorite Element: I love that I’ve managed to create a home that is inspiring, yet kid-friendly and comfortable. I think it’s important to find that balance.

Biggest Challenge: My biggest challenge is knowing when to step back and take a break from a room project. I usually place my foundation pieces first and give it a day or two before I accessorize a room.

Proudest DIY: My proudest DIY in my home has to be the front door. My favorite color is blue so the paint selection was easy! I used Modern Masters Door Paint in Serene. When it came to the wreath, I was stumped. There are so many beautiful options out there! It was one of those moments when I had to step away for a day or two and think on it. Eventually, I decided to make my own wreath. I couldn’t be happier with how it all turned out.

Biggest Indulgence: My biggest indulgence was the wallpaper in my hallway. I definitely did not intend on spending the amount that I did, but it was so worth it! It totally sets the tone when guests arrive.

Best Advice: If you don’t love it, you don’t need it. Your home is a reflection of your lifestyle! Surround yourself with the things that bring you pleasure and joy and that make your life easier.

PAINT & COLORS
Behr — Winter Way
Benjamin Moore — Pearl River

ENTRY
Wallpaper — Devine Color from Target
Frames — Project62, Target
Artwork — Jackson’s Clock (by my eight-year-old son), Paint By Numbers from LB Finds (@lbfinds), Portraits by Emily Winfield Martin

LIVING ROOM
Armless sofa — CB2
Wooden wall panels — Lowes
Poufs — West Elm
Bar cart — IKEA
Bench — Project62, Target

DINING ROOM
Table — Crate and Barrel
Chairs — Target
Frames — West Elm and IKEA
Artwork — Etsy and Society6

KITCHEN
Containers — West Elm & Orla Kiely
Hooks and wall organizer — IKEA

BOYS’ BEDROOMS
Beds, dressers, bedding, rugs, curtains — Crate Kids

MASTER BEDROOM
Bedding — Pottery Barn, West Elm, Target
Deer Head — White Faux Taxidermy

BATHROOM
Marble wall shelf — CB2
Shower curtain — Target

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